The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has appealed the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) interim final rule implementing security background checks for drivers with hazardous materials endorsements (HME).
On December 21, ATA requested that TSA reconsider the need for a fingerprint-based check on the grounds that TSA has already implemented name-based background checks and has achieved the goal of added security mandated by the Patriot Act.
ATA noted that TSA's implementation of a decentralized state-based fingerprint collection program unnecessarily increases the costs of performing background checks.
ATA suggested that TSA continue with the name-based background checks and eventually combine the Hazmat background check program with TSA's implementation of the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
ATA also opposed TSA's decision to allow states to designate additional crimes that would disqualify an individual from holding an HME.
ATA also requested TSA to establish a formal mechanism to ensure that motor carriers receive prompt notice from TSA concerning the revocation of a driver's HME.